Tag: heavy-metal

Films

Paramount+ to Premiere Posthumous Ozzy Osbourne Documentary OZZY: NO ESCAPE FROM NOW on October 7

Tanisha Cardozo

Paramount+ has officially announced the premiere of OZZY: NO ESCAPE FROM NOW, a feature-length documentary that captures the final six years of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne’s life. The film, developed in close collaboration with the Osbourne family, will stream globally starting October 7. Originally intended as a living tribute, the documentary has taken on deeper meaning following Ozzy’s death on July 22, 2025.

The documentary offers an intimate look into the personal and physical challenges Ozzy faced in his later years, including the life-altering fall he suffered in 2019 that triggered a painful series of spinal surgeries and ultimately led to the cancellation of his farewell tour. It also explores the impact of his Parkinson’s diagnosis—on both his body and his spirit—through raw, heartfelt conversations with his wife Sharon and children Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. “He was in hospital for weeks… that was his biggest heartbreak,” Aimee shares in the film.

Despite these struggles, OZZY: NO ESCAPE FROM NOW is not just a story of pain and decline. It celebrates Ozzy’s relentless creative drive, particularly his unexpected return to music through a 2019 collaboration with Post Malone on “Take What You Want.” That experience reinvigorated Ozzy’s passion and led to two critically acclaimed albums, Ordinary Man and the Grammy-winning Patient Number 9, both of which are featured prominently in the film.

The documentary also includes tributes and reflections from close friends and musical collaborators including Tony Iommi, Slash, and James Hetfield—each offering deeply personal insights into the man behind the music. Their voices, combined with never-before-seen footage and unfiltered family commentary, help paint a complete portrait of Ozzy’s final chapter.

While OZZY: NO ESCAPE FROM NOW was never envisioned as a posthumous release, it now stands as a profound and powerful homage to a once-in-a-generation artist who redefined rock and metal while battling immense personal odds. With his signature candor, wit, and unmatched resilience, Ozzy Osbourne’s final years are documented with respect, honesty, and admiration.

The documentary is more than a farewell—it’s a celebration of a legacy that will echo for generations to come.

Music

“Prince of Darkness” Laid to Rest: Thousands Mourn Ozzy Osbourne in Hometown Birmingham

Tanisha Cardozo

BIRMINGHAM, UK — July 31, 2025: Tears, cheers, and chants filled the streets of Birmingham on Wednesday as thousands gathered to honor the life of one of rock music’s greatest pioneers — Ozzy Osbourne, the “Prince of Darkness.”

Osbourne, who died on July 22 at the age of 76 following a battle with Parkinson’s disease, was laid to rest in a city-wide procession that reflected not just his musical legacy but his deep connection to his roots.

Starting near his childhood home in Aston, the funeral procession moved slowly through Birmingham, greeted by crowds waving flags, holding posters, and chanting his name:
“Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!”

A brass band from Bostin’ Brass accompanied the hearse — a black Jaguar adorned with flowers — while fans sang and mourned in unison.

“It was overwhelming and emotional,” said fan Mhairi Larner, who traveled from Nottingham with her son. “He was just nuts — in the best way.”

Another fan, Reece Sargeant, just 16, said it felt right to come:

“Ozzy and Black Sabbath really put Birmingham on the map.”

A Life in Song and Storm

The procession made a special stop at the Black Sabbath Bench, an art installation celebrating the band’s members. There, Sharon Osbourne and other family members laid flowers, read fan tributes, and took a moment to reflect before continuing toward a private service.

In a statement, Zafar Iqbal, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, said:

“Ozzy was more than a music legend — he was a son of Birmingham. We are proud to host this tribute where it all began.”

From his 1970 debut with Black Sabbath to solo stardom, Osbourne sold over 75 million albums, defined a genre, and earned a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — twice.

But he was also infamous for his wild performances — including the time he bit the head off a real bat in 1982, believing it was a toy. He also once faced arrest for a drunken altercation with Sharon, only to later reflect on it openly in interviews.

Despite these controversies, Osbourne always remained deeply loved — for his authenticity, his humor, and his music that gave a voice to millions who felt like outsiders.

A Celebration, Not a Mope-Fest

Ozzy had famously requested that his funeral be a celebration, not a “mope-fest.” Birmingham’s send-off honored that wish.

Fans old and new gathered in tribute — some draped in leather, some in tears, others playing Sabbath tunes on portable speakers.

In death, as in life, Ozzy Osbourne united generations through the power of music.

🖤 Rest in power, Prince of Darkness. You’ll never be forgotten.

Music

Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath Frontman and Heavy Metal Legend, Dies at 76

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic lead singer of Black Sabbath and a titan of heavy metal, has died at the age of 76. Known for his unforgettable voice, outrageous stage presence, and undeniable influence on rock music, he passed away peacefully surrounded by family. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Born John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham, England, Ozzy’s journey to rock stardom began in the late 1960s. With Black Sabbath, he pioneered a darker, heavier sound that laid the foundation for the heavy metal genre. Albums like Paranoid, Master of Reality, and Vol. 4 redefined the boundaries of rock.

After leaving the band in 1979, Ozzy launched a solo career that would further cement his legendary status. His debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz, gave the world classics like Crazy Train and Mr. Crowley. Throughout his career, he released over a dozen albums, hosted the wild and beloved Ozzfest, and never stopped pushing boundaries.

Ozzy was as infamous as he was beloved — whether it was biting a bat on stage or starring in the wildly popular reality show The Osbournes, he brought chaos and charisma wherever he went. Despite years of health struggles, including Parkinson’s disease and spinal injuries, he made a dramatic final return this year, performing with Black Sabbath one last time in Birmingham on July 5, 2025.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Ozzy said that night, seated on a throne surrounded by bat imagery.

Tributes have poured in from across the music world. Elton John called him “a true legend and one of the funniest people I’ve ever met.” Countless artists and fans have praised his resilience, artistry, and unique presence in rock history.

Ozzy Osbourne was more than a musician — he was a movement. A symbol of rebellion, creativity, and staying unapologetically yourself. Though the stage lights have dimmed, his voice will echo in arenas, headphones, and hearts forever.